Last week's fight near the Pier was a result of a street vendor sexually assaulting several women and then rallying other vendors to attack visitors who confronted him over his actions.
In a statement, the Santa Monica Police Department (SMPD) said the fight on June 29 involved several individuals near Tower 14 and resulted in one victim being stabbed.
"The fight started when a vendor (identified as Efigenio Tacuba) approached a group of beachgoers and sexually battered several females. Others in the group confronted Tacuba who then requested assistance from fellow vendors. Several vendors armed themselves with umbrella poles, belts, and at least one knife," said the statement.
Lt. Erika Aklufi said officers located a victim suffering from a non-life-threatening stab wound. An additional victim suffered a possible broken ankle during the altercation. Both victims were transported to local hospitals for treatment.
According to SMPD, four subjects taken into custody were charged by the LA County District Attorney with felony assault and one with multiple counts of sexual battery:
Efigenio Tacuba (DOB: January 1, 1994) Three counts of sexual battery and two counts of assault with a deadly weapon.
Jorge Luis Cruz Murcia (DOB: March 2, 1995) Two counts of assault with a deadly weapon.
Samuel Manzanarez Hernandez (DOB: July 19, 1984) two counts of assault with a deadly weapon.
Oscar Samuel Hernandez (DOB: July 2, 1977) two counts of assault with a deadly weapon.
The release said additional arrests are likely to follow. Anyone with information related to this incident or this individual, particularly cell phone video footage of the incident, is encouraged to contact Detective Holloway or the Watch Commander 24 hours at 310-458-8427.
matt@smdp.com
